Crockpot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham

Introduction

Crockpot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is a succulent, tender ham infused with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the rich caramel notes of brown sugar. Slow-cooked in a crockpot, this ham becomes juicy and flavorful with minimal effort, making it perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a special weekend meal. The combination of sweet pineapple, brown sugar, and a hint of spices creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully, giving every slice a glossy, irresistible finish.

This recipe elevates a traditional ham into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth centerpiece with minimal hands-on time. The crockpot does the work for you, ensuring consistent tenderness and infused flavor throughout.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. The slow cooking ensures the ham stays moist and juicy, while the pineapple and brown sugar glaze creates a beautiful sweet-savory contrast. It’s a foolproof way to make a special meal without standing over the oven for hours. The aroma while cooking is intoxicating, filling the kitchen with the scent of caramelized pineapple and brown sugar—pure comfort food!

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Perfectly tender: Crockpot ensures every bite is juicy.
• Sweet-savory glaze: Pineapple and brown sugar create a rich, flavorful topping.
• Minimal effort: Hands-off cooking, ideal for busy days or entertaining.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep.
• Impressive presentation: Caramelized glaze makes it a show-stopping centerpiece.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–6 hours on low (depending on ham size)
• Total Time: 4–6 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~350 calories per serving
• Course: Main / Dinner
• Cuisine: American / Holiday

Ingredients

• 4–5 lb fully cooked bone-in ham (or spiral-cut ham)
• 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned or fresh pineapple)
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)
• 10–12 maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Ham: Place ham in the crockpot, cut side down if using a spiral ham.
2. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and cloves until smooth.
3. Add Pineapple: Pour half the glaze over the ham. Place pineapple slices on top of ham; secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Slow Cook: Cover crockpot and cook on low for 4–6 hours, basting with remaining glaze halfway through.
5. Caramelize (Optional): For a caramelized finish, transfer ham to a baking dish and broil in the oven for 5–10 minutes until glaze bubbles and edges are golden brown.
6. Garnish: Place maraschino cherries in the center of pineapple slices if desired.
7. Serve: Slice ham and drizzle with remaining juices from the crockpot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Place ham in the crockpot.
2. Mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cloves to make the glaze.
3. Pour half the glaze over ham.
4. Arrange pineapple slices on top, secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, basting halfway through.
6. Optional: Broil for 5–10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
7. Garnish with maraschino cherries.
8. Slice and serve with glaze.

How to Serve

• Serve sliced ham with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato casserole.
• Use leftover ham for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast omelets.
• Drizzle extra glaze over each slice for enhanced flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use a fully cooked ham to reduce cooking time.
• Baste halfway through to enhance flavor and prevent drying.
• Reserve pineapple juice for the glaze or serving sauce.
• Broiling at the end adds a beautiful caramelized finish.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper internal temperature (~140°F / 60°C for reheated cooked ham).

Variations

1. Spiced Variation: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the glaze for a holiday twist.
2. Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.
3. Tropical Variation: Add sliced mango or papaya with pineapple for extra tropical flavor.
4. Bourbon Glaze: Add 2 tablespoons bourbon to the glaze for a sophisticated twist.
5. Spiral Ham Shortcut: Use a pre-sliced spiral ham and follow the same glaze for minimal prep.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Slice ham and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil, or microwave slices with a splash of reserved juice.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / slow cooker
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon or whisk
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing pineapple)
• Oven-safe baking dish (optional, for broiling)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a smaller ham?
A: Yes, adjust cooking time to 3–4 hours on low for a 2–3 lb ham.

Q2: Do I need to score the ham?
A: Not necessary for spiral or pre-sliced hams. For whole hams, scoring can help glaze penetrate.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q4: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: Absolutely, just ensure you reserve the juice to mix into the glaze.

Q5: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: Slow cook on low and only broil at the end for a few minutes; do not leave unattended.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is a delicious, effortless, and crowd-pleasing centerpiece perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion. With its sweet-savory pineapple glaze, tender, juicy ham, and beautiful presentation, this dish elevates any meal while keeping prep minimal. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves flavorful, moist ham with minimal effort and maximum taste.